Rare Video Shows King Faisal Performing Saudi Ardah in Tabuk in 1973

Rare archival footage from September 1973 documenting King Faisal bin Abdulaziz participating in the Saudi Ardha dance in Tabuk has been published for the first time by Darah Al-Faisal, an affiliate of the King Faisal Center for Research and Islamic Studies. Released through the platform X, the historical video captures King Faisal celebrating the National Day alongside local residents 53 years ago.

The newly surfaced digital record stems from a royal visit that coincided with the inauguration of the King Abdulaziz Military City on September 22, 1973. Darah Al-Faisal released the clip as part of a dedicated digital series titled Al-Faisal on the National Day. According to the publishing organization, the recording brings to light a previously unseen visual record from a visit that remains anchored in the collective memory of Tabuk.

Royal Presence and Dignitaries in Tabuk

The video footage shows King Faisal joining the people of Tabuk in performing the traditional Saudi Ardha sword dance. Standing alongside the late monarch in the historical recording are several prominent figures of the era.

The assembled leadership captured in the frame includes the late King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz, the late Prince Sultan bin Abdulaziz, the late Prince Nawaf bin Abdulaziz, and the late Prince Mishal bin Abdulaziz. Sheikh Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, who served as the Crown Prince of Bahrain at that time, also appears in the footage participating in the historic events.

A Dual Celebration in September 1973

The events in Tabuk during September 1973 marked a period of simultaneous civic milestones for the region. The community celebrated both the official royal visit and the nationwide observance of the Saudi National Day. The opening of the King Abdulaziz Military City served as the primary catalyst for the royal delegation’s journey to the northern province.